CS.09 – Real-time CTA LED Map

• Valeria Gogunska
• Michelle John

For this Arduino uno project, we’ve decided to create a real-time map of the Chicago CTA Train system. We will use mock data to simulate train locations and times.This map utilizes LED strips in the shape of the train system lines to simulate where each train is on the map on a mural-like board. We will have buttons that allow users to select a specific line, and also a specific station of a train arrival. For example, they can select trains on the blue line that are only 5 minutes away from a specific stop. We will utilize LEDs to confirm that a user’s input has been received. Once a user enters their line, an LED will be lit up, signifying that they can select their distance/time trains and specific stops that they want to focus on. Another aspect of this CTA train system map is an alarm system feature employing the use of a buzzer. We wanted to add the additional functionality of an alarm attached to a specific line. With this alarm system, the user can select a current line and stop to track, and depending on the distance of the train to the station, there will sound varying tones of warning; there will be different tones for one minute away, five minutes away, and ten minutes away. The train display system and alarm system will communicate via bluetooth.